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mRNA antisense molecules

An antisense molecule is one that is complementary to another complex molecule; in the case of mRNA antisense molecules, they are transcripts complementary to endogenous mRNA. By using noncoding strands of this sort, it is possible to block the expression of a particular gene of interest.

Strands of antisense mRNA molecules can be introduced into the cytosol through microinjection of the cell, and from here a variety of applications are possible. A radioactively labelled mRNA antisense molecule can be used to sense particular types of mRNA and show the level of transcription of genes in many different cell types, helping scientists understand where a faulty gene may be causing difficulty on a cellular level, for instance.

Antisense mRNA molecules have also been designed to change RNA characteristics. RNA is particularly susceptible to degradative enzymes, so it is relatively shortlived. With antisense mRNA molecules, this degradative process can be halted or eliminated, increasing the amount of a specific type of RNA. At this point, at least one antisense therapy has been approved for use in humans, and many others are being experimented with.

Web Resources On mRNA antisense molecules

Antisense RNA
BioTeach: Antisense RNA

Book Resources On mRNA antisense molecules

Antisense Research and Applications by Stanley T. Crooke
Antisense Drug Technology: Principles, Strategies, and Applications by Stanley T. Crooke

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